New York Parks Officials Increase Fees on Fun

But... what's that you say? As part of a plan to "save the parks from Governor David Paterson's budget," the state is raising the cost of enjoying your outdoor activities -- for a total of $4 million in fee increases -- starting April 3. Perfect timing!

In addition to increased greens fees and vehicle use fees at beaches and parks, a new "out-of-state camping surcharge" adds a $5 fee for overnight camping for non-New Yorkers. Which, frankly, we would be happy to take on ourselves, if it gets us out of having to eat gorp.